Digital inclusion is a critical foundation for shared economic and social progress, and it is important that no community or country is excluded from digital tools and technologies. This publication goes beyond the conventional focus on access and skills, presenting a holistic and multi-stakeholder approach for digital inclusion that is action-oriented and responsive to evolving global trends and emerging technologies. Drawing on ideas, innovations, strategies and case studies globally across the public sector, business and civil society, this report highlights the need for full, meaningful, and broad-based participation in digital activities.

Access and affordability of hardware and connectivity, as well as learning and skill acquisition are the foundational aspects of digital inclusion, to build other dimensions – participation in digital economy, engagement in civic and political life, as well as confidence and trust in the digital environment – that are iterative and mutually reinforcing. Tapping into the potential of whole-of-society collaboration is key to tackling the multiple interlocking aspects of digital inclusion. This includes fostering people engagement, participation, and co-solutioning; harnessing businesses and public-private partnerships; and partnering civil society organizations.

We envisaged this as a “Playbook”, which conveys the action-oriented intent to create immediate and tangible impacts in supporting countries to advance more effective digital inclusion strategies and initiatives. We look forward to working with partners interested in using and adapting the material in this Playbook, to ensure that no one is left behind.